Monday, September 21, 2015

Writing Nugget - Keep Some Water in the Tea Kettle







Tea kettles are great, but I've learned from experience to keep some water in them at all times. If you forget to turn off the stove, you could end up with a burned kettle or a fire. One time, I even had a glass version crack.

I always keep some writing ideas stored in my tea kettle brain. Instead of writing down every thought, I end a session in the middle of a scene or chapter. This helps me continue the story without staring at a blank page and ending up with a burned-out mind.

Writers:  What are some techniques you use to keep the ideas flowing?

Readers:  If you're a blogger, how do you come up with fresh content?

Photo Credit:  Samantha Sargent


4 comments:

Linda O'Connell said...

Susan, I like your idea about stopping midway through. It's like picking up a book and continuing the story. I am going to try this technique.

Karen Lange said...

Love this analogy! Yes, it's always good to have a reserve from which to draw. I have a list of post ideas (well, several, scattered about my desk), and I also keep in mind those "evergreen" topics such as editing tips that are always timely.

Terri Tiffany said...

I like that idea of ending in the middle of scene. I haven't been able to do that and then have to go back and read the entire chapter to get into the mood again!

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

My apologies for not replying sooner. I've been having Internet issues, which hopefully will be resolved on 10/7 when FIOS is installed.

Hi Linda - It really works for me. :)

Hi Karen - Working this way keeps the momentum going. Those evergreen topics come in handy.

Hi Terri - I may stop writing on paper, but I keep the thoughts rolling in the direction of the scene. It's not a dead stop - more like coasting for a bit.